The Modern Language Association (MLA) provides a specific format for acknowledging sources, including interactive digital media. Properly crediting such works ensures academic integrity and acknowledges the creators’ contributions. A works-cited-list entry for a video game generally includes the game title, the platform on which it was played, the developer or publisher, and the year of release. For example: The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Nintendo Switch, Nintendo, 2017.
Consistent citation practices are essential for building credibility and avoiding plagiarism in academic work. Accurate documentation demonstrates rigorous research and respect for intellectual property. As video games gain recognition as cultural and artistic works, referencing them in scholarly contexts becomes increasingly prevalent, underscoring the necessity for clear and standardized citation methods. Using the correct format allows readers to easily locate the source material, encouraging further exploration and validation of cited information.
The following sections will detail the specific elements required in a video game citation, including variations based on how the game was accessed (e.g., physical copy, digital download, online platform) and how to cite specific elements within the game itself.
1. Game Title
The title of a video game serves as the primary identifier in citation and is fundamental for accurately representing the source. Its placement and formatting within a works-cited entry adhere to specific MLA guidelines, ensuring clarity and consistency.
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Formatting and Presentation
Game titles are typically italicized, reflecting their status as self-contained works. If the title includes a subtitle, both parts are included and separated by a colon. For example, Red Dead Redemption 2 or The Last of Us: Part II. This consistent formatting allows readers to quickly identify the source as a distinct piece of intellectual property.
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Accuracy and Completeness
The cited title must precisely match the official title as presented on the game’s packaging or digital distribution platform. Omissions or alterations can lead to confusion and hinder the reader’s ability to locate the correct source. Accuracy extends to capitalization and punctuation, mirroring the original title’s presentation.
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Titles Within Titles
If the game title contains the title of another work (e.g., a book, movie, or song), that embedded title follows its own established formatting rules. For example, if a game is named after a book, the book title would be italicized within the larger game title. Adherence to this layered formatting demonstrates attention to detail and clarifies the relationship between cited works.
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Localization and Translations
When citing a localized version of a game, use the title as it appears in the language relevant to the research. If the original title is significantly different and pertinent to the analysis, it can be included in parentheses after the localized title. This practice acknowledges the potential for variations across different regions and ensures accessibility for readers familiar with either version.
Correctly presenting the title is a crucial step in accurately documenting a video game source according to MLA guidelines. Consistent and precise application of these principles establishes credibility and facilitates effective communication within scholarly discourse.
2. Platform
The platform on which a video game is played is a vital element in the MLA citation process. Identifying the platform provides essential contextual information about the source. This detail helps readers locate the specific version of the game referenced in the work, considering that gameplay experiences and content can differ across platforms. For example, Minecraft on PC may offer modding capabilities absent in the console versions, while some titles might be exclusive to a particular system, like Spider-Man on PlayStation. Specifying “PC,” “PlayStation 5,” “Xbox Series X,” or “Nintendo Switch” ensures clarity and precision. Failure to identify the platform can lead to ambiguity, particularly when the game has undergone updates or exists in multiple versions.
Accurately noting the platform contributes to the overall accuracy of the citation, influencing its discoverability. Many games receive platform-specific updates or expansions, and the citation allows the reader to understand the specific version being discussed. For instance, an analysis of graphical fidelity would necessitate platform identification, as visual performance can vary significantly. Similarly, differences in controller schemes or online multiplayer functionality might be relevant to scholarly discussions. By including this element, citations offer a more complete and contextualized understanding of the game as a source.
In summary, the platform is an important component of a video game citation. It clarifies the version of the game used, allowing for a more precise understanding of the source material. This practice is a key step in creating accurate and useful citations for video games in academic and research settings.
3. Developer/Publisher
Identifying the developer and publisher of a video game is crucial for accurate citation according to MLA guidelines. These entities hold distinct roles in the creation and distribution process, and acknowledging them appropriately lends credibility to the citation.
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Role Differentiation
The developer is the entity primarily responsible for the game’s creation, encompassing programming, art, and design. The publisher, conversely, typically handles distribution, marketing, and financial backing. While the same entity can perform both roles, distinguishing them clarifies the source’s origin and accountability. For example, a small indie game might be both developed and published by a single studio, whereas a large-scale title often involves a separate publisher providing resources and logistical support.
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Citation Order and Formatting
In MLA format, the developer and publisher are listed after the game title and platform. When different entities, the developer is generally cited first, followed by the publisher. If the same entity fulfilled both roles, it is listed only once. The formatting should adhere to standard MLA punctuation and capitalization rules. For instance, “Rockstar Games. Rockstar Games, 2018” (if Rockstar Games is both developer and publisher), or “CD Projekt Red. Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, 2015” (if different).
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Impact on Source Evaluation
Knowing the developer and publisher can significantly impact a source’s perceived authority and reliability. Some developers have a reputation for quality or specific design philosophies, influencing how readers interpret information from the game. Similarly, the publisher’s history and financial interests can provide context for understanding the game’s content and marketing strategies. Recognizing these affiliations aids in critical source evaluation.
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Addressing Ambiguity
In cases where the developer or publisher is unclear or undocumented, research may be required to ascertain the correct information. Sources like the game’s credits, official website, or reputable gaming databases can provide this information. If, after reasonable effort, the information remains unavailable, “n.p.” (no publisher) or “n.d.” (no date) may be used, though this should be avoided whenever possible. Accurate and complete attribution enhances the citation’s utility and credibility.
The accurate identification and formatting of the developer and publisher are essential elements in citing video games according to MLA guidelines. Acknowledging these entities not only demonstrates thoroughness but also provides valuable context for understanding the source and its creation.
4. Year of Release
The year of release is a critical component in citing a video game according to MLA guidelines because it provides temporal context for the source. It distinguishes between different versions or editions of the same title, acknowledges potential updates or changes implemented post-release, and anchors the work within a specific historical and cultural period. Omitting the year of release introduces ambiguity, potentially leading researchers or readers to misinterpret the source’s relevance or content.
Consider a game like Final Fantasy XIV. The initial release in 2010 was significantly different from Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn, released in 2013. Citing only the title would fail to acknowledge the substantial changes and improvements made. Similarly, a game with ongoing updates, such as No Man’s Sky, has evolved considerably since its initial 2016 release. Providing the year of release allows readers to accurately assess the specific version referenced and its corresponding features. Furthermore, the release year positions the game within the technological and cultural landscape of its time, influencing how one might interpret its narrative, design, and social impact. A game released in the early 2000s, for example, would reflect different societal values and technological limitations compared to one released in the 2020s.
In conclusion, the year of release is not merely an administrative detail in an MLA citation; it provides essential context for understanding the source material. It facilitates accurate identification of the game version, acknowledges ongoing updates, and situates the work within a specific historical and cultural moment. Accurate inclusion of the year of release is therefore paramount for maintaining scholarly integrity and enabling effective communication about video game sources.
5. In-Game Content
In-game content, such as specific quests, dialogues, items, or events, may require citation when referenced in academic writing. Its proper acknowledgement within an MLA framework ensures that specific elements within a game are attributed accurately, allowing readers to locate and verify the cited material. Citing in-game content offers a deeper level of analysis by referencing specific elements within the game world that support a particular argument or observation.
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Specific Quests or Missions
When referencing a particular quest or mission, include its name (if available), and provide context for where it appears in the game. If the quest is crucial to an analysis of narrative structure, social commentary, or player agency, explicitly mentioning it helps situate the argument. For example, citing a specific questline in The Witcher 3 that examines moral ambiguity allows readers to understand the argument within the context of the game’s storytelling.
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Dialogue and Cutscenes
Direct quotes from in-game dialogues or descriptions of specific cutscenes must be cited. Provide a clear indicator of where these elements occur within the game, such as the chapter or area where the dialogue takes place. This enables readers to verify the accuracy of the quote within its original context, which is particularly important if analyzing character development or narrative themes.
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Items, Characters, or Locations
If analyzing the significance of specific items, characters, or locations within the game world, they should be properly referenced. Mention their name as it appears in the game and provide contextual information. Discussing a particular weapon’s influence on gameplay mechanics or a location’s role in shaping the narrative requires precise identification of these elements, grounding the argument in specific game details.
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Game Mechanics or Systems
Referencing specific game mechanics or systems requires a clear description of how they function within the game. This helps to demonstrate a deep understanding of the game’s inner workings and how they influence player behavior or game outcomes. For example, citing a specific AI behavior in Halo or the physics system in Breath of the Wild adds depth to the analysis and ensures the reader comprehends the game’s operational logic.
Proper citation of these elements within a game enhances the credibility of scholarly work and promotes a richer understanding of the game’s complexities. By identifying specific content, one anchors theoretical analyses to the concrete aspects of the game world, bridging the gap between broad interpretations and the game’s intrinsic details.
6. Digital vs. Physical
The distinction between digital and physical formats of a video game significantly impacts its citation according to MLA guidelines. The core elements remain consistent (title, platform, developer, publisher, year), but supplementary details vary to reflect the mode of access. A physical copy allows for referencing packaging information, while a digital download necessitates the inclusion of access or retrieval details. This differentiation ensures source verification despite differing distribution methods.
A citation for a physical video game typically follows the standard format, drawing information directly from the game’s packaging, disc, or instruction manual. Consider Animal Crossing: New Horizons (Nintendo Switch, Nintendo, 2020). The elements are readily available on the physical product. Conversely, citing a digitally downloaded game requires acknowledgment of its online source. For example, Hades (PC, Supergiant Games, 2020) might include information about the specific platform from which it was downloaded (e.g., Steam, Epic Games Store) and a URL or DOI if available, providing a direct link to the source. This distinction is critical, especially when games undergo updates or are exclusive to certain digital platforms.
The “digital vs. physical” aspect in video game citation highlights the adaptive nature of MLA guidelines. Recognizing the source medium is essential for readers to accurately locate and verify the cited material. Failing to specify digital access may obscure the source’s origin, hindering its accessibility. Therefore, the conscientious application of these distinctions ensures accurate and reliable video game citations, reflecting the evolving landscape of game distribution.
7. Container
Within the framework of MLA citation, the concept of a “container” is central to understanding the overall source’s placement and context, especially crucial when documenting video games. The container refers to the larger entity that holds the specific work being cited. For a video game, this could be a platform like Steam, the Nintendo eShop, a physical game cartridge, or a gaming console’s operating system. Identifying the container provides essential information about where the video game resides, particularly for digital-only games or those accessed through online services. Failure to recognize the container’s significance can obscure the source’s origin, complicating its retrieval by readers. For example, a game accessed through a subscription service like Xbox Game Pass requires acknowledging the service as the container.
The container is important because it facilitates accurate location of the source. A digital game distributed on multiple platforms (Steam, GOG, Epic Games Store) needs to specify its container to clarify which version is referenced. Citing Disco Elysium solely by its title, developer, and year omits crucial information. However, including “Steam” as the container provides a precise point of access. Similarly, for games with episodic content, the container might refer to the digital store where individual episodes were purchased. In cases of physical media, the game console serves as the container, situating the game within a specific hardware ecosystem. Consider The Last of Us Part II on PlayStation 4. While the game itself is the work, PlayStation 4 provides its operational context. This helps readers understand the work’s technical specifications and platform-specific features.
In summary, the “container” element is integral to crafting comprehensive MLA citations for video games. It provides the necessary context for locating and validating the source, particularly for digital content and platform-specific releases. Acknowledging the container promotes clarity, facilitates accurate replication of research, and upholds scholarly integrity. Ignoring this aspect can lead to ambiguous citations, hindering access and undermining the overall credibility of academic work referencing video games.
8. Contributors
The accurate identification and crediting of contributors represent a critical dimension of source documentation when citing a video game according to Modern Language Association (MLA) style. While the game title, platform, and publisher form the core citation, acknowledging individual contributors recognizes the collaborative nature of game development and ensures proper attribution of intellectual property.
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Lead Designers and Directors
The lead designer and director often exert significant creative influence over a game’s development. Citing these individuals acknowledges their artistic vision and design choices. For instance, when analyzing the narrative structure of a game, citing the lead writer or narrative director provides context for their creative decisions. Example: Neil Druckmann, director, The Last of Us. Neglecting such attribution overlooks pivotal contributions to the final product.
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Programmers and Technical Staff
Programmers and technical staff contribute significantly to the functionality and performance of a video game. While comprehensive citation of every programmer is impractical, highlighting lead programmers or those responsible for specific technical innovations may be appropriate. Example: Citing the lead physics programmer for a game known for its realistic physics engine underscores their technical expertise and its impact on gameplay. Recognizing their work demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of game development.
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Artists and Composers
Artists and composers shape the visual and auditory aesthetics of a video game, contributing significantly to its overall impact. Citing the lead artist or composer acknowledges their creative contributions. For instance, referencing the composer of a game’s soundtrack when analyzing its emotional impact recognizes their artistry. Example: Koji Kondo, composer, The Legend of Zelda. Ignoring these contributions neglects key elements of the game’s artistic merit.
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Voice Actors and Performers
Voice actors and performers lend their talents to bring characters to life within a video game. Citing these individuals acknowledges their contribution to character development and narrative delivery. When analyzing character portrayal or narrative nuances, referencing the voice actor enhances the analysis. Example: Troy Baker, voice actor, Joel, The Last of Us. Failure to recognize these performances overlooks essential contributions to the immersive qualities of the gaming experience.
The inclusion of key contributors in MLA-style video game citations acknowledges the diverse skill sets and collaborative efforts involved in game development. This practice not only demonstrates respect for intellectual property but also provides valuable context for understanding the game’s artistic, technical, and narrative dimensions. By accurately citing these contributors, scholarly work gains depth and credibility, reflecting a comprehensive understanding of the source material.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Video Game Citation in MLA Style
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the proper citation of video games using the Modern Language Association (MLA) format. The following questions and answers aim to provide clarity and guidance on accurately documenting these sources in academic and research contexts.
Question 1: What are the core elements required in a video game citation using MLA style?
The core elements include the game title (italicized), the platform on which the game was played, the developer, the publisher, and the year of release. Additional information may be required depending on the context, such as specific in-game content or access details for digital downloads.
Question 2: How does one cite a video game accessed through a digital distribution platform like Steam or the PlayStation Store?
In addition to the core elements, include the name of the digital distribution platform as the container. If available, provide a URL or Digital Object Identifier (DOI) to facilitate direct access to the game’s listing on the platform.
Question 3: Is it necessary to specify the platform on which the game was played, or is the game title sufficient?
Specifying the platform is essential. Different platforms may offer variations in gameplay, graphics, or available content. Including the platform ensures the reader understands the specific version being referenced.
Question 4: How should one cite specific in-game content, such as a particular quest, character, or dialogue excerpt?
When citing specific in-game content, identify the content clearly (e.g., the name of the quest or character). If possible, provide contextual information, such as the location within the game or the chapter in which the content appears. Direct quotes from in-game dialogue should be enclosed in quotation marks.
Question 5: When a video game is developed and published by the same entity, how is this indicated in the citation?
If the developer and publisher are the same entity, list the entity only once. For example: “Rockstar Games. Rockstar Games, 2018.” Avoid redundancy by repeating the entity name.
Question 6: What information should be included when citing a video game accessed through a subscription service like Xbox Game Pass or PlayStation Plus?
In addition to the game’s standard citation elements, include the name of the subscription service as the container. This clarifies the mode of access and acknowledges the platform providing the game.
Accurate and consistent application of MLA guidelines to video game citations ensures scholarly integrity and enables effective communication within academic discourse. Adherence to these principles facilitates source verification and promotes a clear understanding of the cited material.
The following section will address advanced citation scenarios and exceptions to standard MLA formatting.
Tips for Citing Video Games in MLA Style
Effective and precise citation of video games using MLA guidelines enhances academic credibility. Implementing the following tips ensures accurate representation and facilitates verification of sources.
Tip 1: Prioritize Accuracy in Game Title Transcription: The game title should be transcribed verbatim from the game packaging or digital storefront. This includes proper capitalization, punctuation, and any subtitles. Inconsistencies can impede source identification.
Tip 2: Consistently Identify the Platform: Specify the platform on which the game was played (e.g., PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, PC). Different platforms can offer varying game experiences or content; therefore, platform identification is crucial for clarity.
Tip 3: Verify Developer and Publisher Roles: Distinguish between the game developer and publisher when citing. While the same entity may perform both roles, separate entities should be clearly identified and ordered appropriately in the citation.
Tip 4: Include the Year of Release for Context: The year of release is essential for placing the game within a temporal context. It distinguishes between different versions and acknowledges potential updates or modifications implemented post-launch.
Tip 5: Specify Digital Access Information: When citing a digitally downloaded game, include the name of the distribution platform (e.g., Steam, GOG, Epic Games Store) and a URL if available. This aids in locating the specific version of the game referenced.
Tip 6: Contextualize In-Game Content with Specific Details: When referencing specific in-game elements (e.g., quests, characters, dialogue), provide sufficient context for identification. This may include chapter numbers, location descriptions, or other relevant identifiers.
Tip 7: Acknowledge Subscription Services as Containers: If the game was accessed through a subscription service (e.g., Xbox Game Pass, PlayStation Plus), identify the service as the container to clarify the source’s point of access.
Tip 8: Credit Principal Contributors When Relevant: Include the names and roles of key contributors (e.g., lead designer, composer, writer) if their contributions are directly relevant to the analysis. This acknowledges the collaborative nature of game development.
Adhering to these tips will improve the accuracy and comprehensiveness of video game citations, ensuring that sources are properly documented and easily verifiable. By paying attention to these details, researchers and scholars can elevate the credibility of their work.
The subsequent section will provide a concise summary of the essential considerations and best practices in this domain.
Conclusion
This exploration of proper video game citation adhering to MLA guidelines underscores the importance of meticulous source documentation within academic contexts. The core elements game title, platform, developer/publisher, year of release, and container are crucial for accurate identification. Furthermore, the correct acknowledgment of digital versus physical formats, specific in-game content, and key contributors ensures the integrity and verifiability of research.
As video games continue to evolve as complex cultural and artistic artifacts, the ability to correctly cite them becomes increasingly vital for scholars and researchers. The application of these principles not only upholds academic standards but also demonstrates a commitment to recognizing the intellectual property and creative efforts inherent in game development. Consistent and accurate citation practices will facilitate greater understanding and appreciation of video games within scholarly discourse.
